Talk about dog

Mar 12, 2015

Dogs Ramp It Up for Some Very Special Children at an Ohio Camp

By Dr. Becker

Flying Horse Farms is a non-profit organization in Mount Gilead, Ohio that runs camps for children with serious illnesses. Their motto is, “For a week at a time, being sick takes a backseat to being a kid.”

A Special Camping Experience for Some Very Special Kids

The children who attend camp are battling conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, blood disorders, gastrointestinal disease, and craniofacial abnormalities. Despite their illness, the kids are encouraged to run, jump, play, swim, and participate in other activities that interest them. They can go boating, fishing, or hiking. They can learn archery or work on arts and crafts projects.

The camps are completely free for all participants, and in 2014, over 800 kids made their way to Mount Gilead, Ohio and a Flying Horse Farms camping adventure.

Mount Gilead looks just like any other summer camp, with a lake, swimming pools, outdoor amphitheaters, and plenty of open play areas. But behind the scenes, there’s a lot of special stuff going on. Doctors and medical personnel from all over Ohio volunteer their time to care for the campers. Ropes courses are modified for kids who can’t walk. There are wheelchair ramps leading out to campfire areas. Fully stocked medical stations are strategically placed throughout the camp, and a state-of-the-art medical facility is staffed with doctors and nurses. There’s even a helicopter pad for emergencies.

Canine Camp Counselors Are a Special Feature at Flying Horse Farms

Another very unique feature of Flying Horse Farms is that not all the camp counselors are two-legged. There’s also a team of friendly, well-trained, kid-loving canine counselors onboard to make sure the children get the most from their camping experience.

The dogs are provided to the camp by Joel Slaven, a trainer and animal rescuer. All of Slaven’s dogs are rescues, and each year several of them and their trainers go to camp to liven things up and make important connections with the kids. Last summer, three agility dogs and three therapy dogs and their handlers were onsite at Flying Horse Farms. The dogs who are selected for camp must be comfortable being handled and hugged by lots of kids, and must have the energy and motivation to run and play with them as well.

The canine counselors play two roles with the children. One of their jobs is to allow the kids to work with them, running them through agility courses and teaching them tricks. The dogs also visit various activities throughout the day to give the campers an opportunity to play and laugh and connect with them.

Although the dogs are always around and involved in much of the camp’s schedule, allergic or fearful children are managed in such a way that they feel safe and comfortable, and are also able to participate in all the activities they enjoy.

Canine Counselors Offer Short- and Long-Term Benefits for Campers

The dogs at Flying Horse Farms provide both short and long-term benefits for the children. Their presence raises the camp’s happiness quotient, while at the same time reducing anxiety, improving the kids’ confidence, and providing quiet companionship when needed.

The presence of the dogs also encourages uncommunicative kids to open up. Working with a dog on the agility course can help children with behavioral problems gain confidence and composure. The dogs are also beneficial for children with phobias or generalized anxiety. Some children leave camp after a week having overcome challenges like fear of the water.

Working with the dogs on agility and training gives kids a sense of mastery, which can be a rare feeling for a youngster living day-to-day with a debilitating illness.

The canine counselors are also a welcome presence for homesick children and those who are missing their own pets, as well as kids who can’t have a pet at home due to their illness or treatment protocol. And for children who fall ill at camp or must receive sometimes-painful medical treatments, the presence of a warm furry body offering unconditional acceptance helps them cope.

Before Dying, Simpsons’ Co-Creator Made An Incredible Decision About His Fortune

Sam Simon is known in Hollywood as one of the three co-creators of “The Simpsons,” that quirky show that’s been on since 1989. Sadly, he passed yesterday and the entire world mourns the life of one heckuva funny man–and an ardent friend of all creatures, great and small.

Image via Daily Mail

Simon was diagnosed in 2012 with colon cancer and was given three months to live. However, his approach to the disease was anything but negative.

Image via Sam Simon’s Twitter

Divorced in the early 90s’ and without children, Simon made the generous decision to give his 100 million fortune away to various charities.

Besides, donating millions to the Sam Simon Foundation and PETA, he also helped fund multiple projects to feed the homeless.

His generosity was so boundless that we’d just like to give Simon the highest of paws for his wonderful contributions. A true champion of animal rights!

Here’s Simon talking to NBC’s Maria Shriver about his decision:

Dog Gets Insanely Long Hug From Cat After 10 Days Apart

After being separated for ten days, this cat and dog duo had to hug it out like the bros that they are.

We guess the cat missed the dog more, but after centuries of conflict between dogs and cats it was mighty fine of the pup to let the cat have his feels.

BarkPost Challenge: While you watch, see if you can hug your dog as long as the cat in this video. Ready… GO!

Mar 11, 2015

Compilation: Babies and Dogs Interacting

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It seems for all the world like the babies talk, and the pups answer… or maybe it’s the other way around!

The "Cute" Little Habit That Can Sicken Your Pet - Or Worse

By Dr. Becker

For some reason, many dogs and even cats enjoy licking lotions and other types of topical products off their human’s skin. In fact, one of my dogs tends to wait by the bathroom door, hoping he’ll get a chance to sample whatever I’ve applied to my skin after my shower. (That’s one of the reasons I use all organic body products.) And dogs seem especially intent on having a lick if the product has a yummy smell, for example, vanilla scented body lotion or coconut oil-based products.

Unfortunately, this seemingly harmless little habit so many pets indulge in can be cause for concern depending on what you’ve put on your skin. The following are products you definitely don’t want your dog, cat, bird, or other animal companion licking off you and ingesting.

Over-the-Counter Topical Products Dangerous to Pets

Personal care products. The majority of personal care products, including soaps and body washes, toothpastes, moisturizing lotions, sunscreens, self-tanners, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, antiperspirants, make-up, and other cosmetics, contain potentially toxic chemicals. Not only can they cause GI upset if ingested by your pet, they can also affect your own health. For a comprehensive infographic on typical chemicals used in these products, see Dr. Mercola’s article, “Hidden Dangers in Personal Care Products.”

Creams containing hydrocortisone. These are steroid-based formulations typically used to control itching. If your pet ingests a product containing hydrocortisone, it can cause increased thirst and urination, panting, vomiting and diarrhea.

Ointments, lotions and creams containing antibiotics. Commonly called “triple-antibiotic” products, these are applied to cuts, scrapes, scratches, and other types of breaks in the skin. If ingested by your pet, they can cause stomach upset.

Antifungal creams. These are used to treat athlete’s foot, vaginal yeast infections, “jock itch,” and nail fungus. They can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested by your pet.

Products containing zinc oxide. These are typically diaper rash ointments and creams, and calamine lotion used to treat poison ivy. Zinc oxide can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Bloody vomit or diarrhea should prompt a call to your veterinarian, since it indicates the zinc oxide has damaged your pet’s GI tract, potentially requiring treatment.

Muscle rub creams. Many of these products contain salicylates, which are aspirin-like compounds that if ingested by your pet can cause vomiting with or without blood, as well as stomach ulcers. Some muscle rub products may contain other problem ingredients, like menthol or capsaicin, which is an active component of chili peppers.

Minoxidil, brand name Rogaine. This is a hair regrowth product, but its original use was as a blood pressure medication. Pets who ingest minoxidil can show initial symptoms of vomiting and lethargy, progressing to a build-up of fluid in the lungs, and ultimately, heart failure. Certainly you’ll want to keep your pet a safe distance away if you have this product in your home.

Prescription Topical Products Dangerous to Pets

Prescription steroid-based creams. These are typically prescribed for itchy skin conditions when over-the-counter products aren’t working. Common topical steroids include betamethasone, clobetasone, clobetasol, hydrocortisone, methylprednisone, mometasone, and triamcinolone. If ingested, these products can cause the same symptoms in your pet as OTC preparations (increased thirst and urination, panting, vomiting, and diarrhea), but for a longer period of time.

Hormone creams. Topical creams containing hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone can be absorbed through your pet’s skin in addition to being ingested. These compounds are endocrine disruptors that can cause changes such as mammary gland enlargement, and in sterilized females, signs of estrus and false pregnancy.

Anti-inflammatory pain medication creams. These compounded creams (Flurbiprofen is a common one) are typically prescribed for topical relief of arthritis. Just a tiny ingested amount of Flurbiprofen can cause kidney failure in cats.

Vitamin A compounds. These are called retinoids, and they’re prescribed to treat acne. Ingestion by a pet can cause stomach upset and in pregnant animals, birth defects in developing fetuses.

Calcipotriene, brand name Dovonex. This is a prescription ointment containing vitamin D used to treat psoriasis. Just a small amount of this ointment can be fatal to both dogs and cats; it also causes vomiting and kidney failure.

5-fluorouracil, brand names 5-FU and Efudex. This prescription lotion is used to treat a condition called solar keratosis, which is precancerous sun damage, as well as skin cancer in humans. If ingested by your pet, it can cause uncontrollable seizures, bloody vomiting, and diarrhea, and bone marrow suppression. This is an incredibly dangerous product to use around animals, as the majority who ingest it cannot be saved.

5 Tips for Keeping Your Pet Safe from Topical Products

Prevent your pet from licking after you’ve applied any product to your skin. Even if you use primarily organic, non-toxic products, it’s best to consistently discourage licking to keep your pet safe in all situations.

Allow all topical products to dry or soak in completely – or cover the area of application --- before having contact with your pet.

Never apply a topical product meant for humans to your pet without first talking with your veterinarian.

After applying any topical drug, over-the-counter or prescription, wash your hands thoroughly before handling your pet. Store all such products well away from your pet.

Contact your vet or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately if you suspect your pet may have ingested or come in contact with a potentially harmful topical product.

Bossy Dog Stops Skiers In Their Tracks And Demands A Game Of Fetch

The best way to get what you want is to just be honest and upfront. Am I right?

Hugh Jackman Just Made The Most Adorable Confession Ever

In a recent interview with Magic Radio’s Jo Parkerson, dog dad hottie Hugh Jackman proved he’s one of us crazy dog parents.

The proud pooch papa of two adorable tail-waggers, Dali (the Frenchie) and Allegra (the poodle/terrier cross), Jackman is often seen out and about with them.

On the show, Jackman gushed about his pups, talking about how much he loved them and missed them when he was away.

Jackman shared, “I do Skype my dogs. I love that, the whole Skype, Facetime thing. Technology is great. You know, your fans find a way and they come every night to see you. It wasn’t for me. They’re asking about, ‘The dogs, – when are the dogs coming?’ Because I was taking the puppy into the theater. They came to see the puppy. They didn’t care about me. I mean I love my dogs, I get it, they’re way more interesting than me.”

Yep. We couldn’t agree with you more, Mr. Jackman. Technology is indeed pretty darn awesome. Especially, Camio, that app that not only lets you watch your dog’s adorable shenanigans while you’re away but also let’s you talk to your fuzz-butt and share the silly things they do with all your friends and family! A winner indeed!

Mar 10, 2015

Paddle Boarder’s Close-Up Orca Encounter

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Some people call the Orca a “killer whale,” but while riding the waves one day, this paddle boarder discovered how interactive they can be.

Should This Enormous, Aggressive Animal Be Revived in California?

By Dr. Becker

The grizzly bear has been an endangered species since 1975. Estimates are that up to 100,000 grizzlies once ranged throughout western North America, from the high Arctic to Mexico, and from the California coast to the Great Plains. These days, fewer than 2,000 bears remain, residing in only 4 percent of their historic range in the lower 48 states.

If you want to spot a grizzly, you’ll need to visit Alaska, or Yellowstone or Glacier National Park.

No Grizzly Bear Has Been Sighted in California in Over 90 Years

At one time there may have been as many as 10,000 grizzlies roaming California alone, but the last one was killed in 1922. No grizzly bears have been sighted in the state since 1924.

The California grizzly was a magnificent animal, weighing from 1,200 to 2,200 pounds. The mild California climate and plentiful food supply meant the bears didn’t need to hibernate, which accounted for their massive size. Unfortunately, the land the bears inhabited was also highly desirable to ranchers and farmers, who drove the bears out. And since grizzlies are more likely to stand their ground against humans than other bear species, they made easy targets.

Over the years, various organizations have expressed interest in bringing grizzlies back to California, just as bison, elk, and wolves have been reintroduced in areas they were once removed from. A major challenge to any reintroduction plan is that the bears’ preferred habitat was the coast and central valley of California, which are now densely populated areas with only fragments remaining of suitable grizzly habitat. This is potentially a recipe for disaster since grizzlies, especially females with cubs, can be very aggressive toward humans.

Over 100,000 Square Miles in Western U.S. Identified as Potential Grizzly Habitat

In June 2014, the Center for Biological Diversity filed a legal petition with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to significantly expand its plans for recovering grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act, including returning the bears to many areas of the American West.¹

Specifically, the petition identifies over 100,000 square miles of potential grizzly habitat in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and California’s Sierra Nevada. According to the Center:

“Returning bears to some or all of these areas is a crucial step toward recovering them under the Endangered Species Act and could potentially triple the grizzly bear population in the lower 48, from a meager 1,500 to 1,800 today to as many as 6,000.”²

The Center maintains that the USFWS has taken a fragmented approach to the recovery of grizzly bears, developing recovery strategies for only six populations, living in a relatively small portion of the bears’ range. And while there’s been some success in improving the health of bears at Yellowstone and Glacier, all remaining populations are isolated. The Center states:

“The science is clear that, if we’re serious about recovering grizzly bears, we need more populations around the West, and more connections between them, so they don’t fall prey to inbreeding and so they have a chance of adapting to a warming world. If we want these incredible bears around for centuries to come, we’ve still got a lot of work left to do.”

Is California Ready for the Return of the Grizzly Bear?

Some Californians are uncomfortable with the prospect of grizzly bears once again roaming the state.

“As an avid hiker with an appreciation for, and healthy fear of, bears, this news both thrilled and alarmed me,” said Mariel Garza of the Sacramento Bee. “I like the idea of a once-threatened species returning to its former habitat. I cheered when OR7, the gray wolf, crossed into California in 2011, the first wolf to return to the Golden State in 70 years. But when it comes to 1-ton predators, especially those that sometimes eat people, out of sight is my preference. Way out of sight.”³

Comparing the reintroduction of wolves to grizzlies, an LA Times editorial observes that:

“Grizzlies are a different story. Though their eradication in California remains one of the state's shames, it's far from clear that they have a natural place here any longer. They have not made their way close to California on their own. Yellowstone National Park and its surroundings have fewer people living in much larger territories. California has more than 10 times the human population than it did when the last wild grizzly died. Its parks and forests in the Sierra Nevada are heavily visited, and grizzlies can be unpredictable in the wild. Female grizzlies are particularly aggressive when a person comes within a certain distance of her cubs.”⁴

My hope is that conservationists and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can reintroduce grizzlies into greater portions of their natural range in a way that will be non-threatening to both humans and bears.

Boxer Pup Can’t Stop Marveling At The Magic Of His New Drinking Fountain

It’s like when you get the latest iPhone gen, and you just. Can’t. Stop. Playing.

Mar 9, 2015

How to Talk to Your Dog

What we say our dogs is important. What we say is crucial. Different tones of voice are used to distinguish between commands, corrections and thank you. The commands are given in a large firm tone of voice. No music please. Corrections are made a little lower, sharper and growlier. Praise is more exuberant and enthusiastic - good, but not as lavish encourage you to get out of control.

All orders must be preceded by the dog's name. How Rover do not know if you talk to him? But even before that, you teach Rover to look for you. Draw a line through the eyes Rover Index for your finger. Once eye contact is established, to talk to him and encourage him to maintain eye contact for a few seconds with a "guard" In a pleasant tone of voice optimism. You can also call the attention of Rover take a small piece of food after leaving Rover sniff, move the food at eye level. When Rover looks up, praise him and give food reward. Now that you have their attention, he is willing to listen.

The mother of your dog will not be repeated again and again. Should not either. Once the dog understands what order, simply say once: "Rover, sit" If he continues to feel the air, or otherwise ignore it, is "No, sit down"! (An instructive reprimand), then put the dogging sitting.

When teaching a first order, it is important to help the dog succeed, pulling at the position. Dogs are not born with an innate understanding of words. They learn by associating words with actions.

Be consistent! You just need to ask the dog to do one thing at a time. If you ask your dog to "Sit", how is he to know what to do? "Sit" and "Down" are two different commands. Be specific with your orders. When he wants to get off the couch, do not share the controls as "low" and ensure that all family members are using the same commands "off."; if not confusion delayed success training.

Above all, stay positive. You are communication and relationship building. You will work for rewards (salary, bonuses, commissions), so will your dog!

How Fast Is Your Dog Aging? That Depends... So Consult This Handy Chart

By Dr. Becker

All of us who love dogs are acutely aware that the lifespans of our canine companions are short – much too short. And while the years we spend with a beloved pet seem to fly by, dogs don't just suddenly die when they reach a certain age. They grow older in stages just as we do, but at a tremendously accelerated rate compared to humans. Your four-legged friend may still look and act like a puppy much of the time, but there are age related changes taking place inside him despite his youthful good looks and high energy level.

The lifespan of a dog depends primarily on his size, breed (or breed mix), and health status. As a general rule, giant breed dogs are considered senior citizens at 5 years of age, and dogs under 20 pounds move into the range at about 7.

Of course, every dog is a little different, but this is a good general guideline to determine your dog's age in human years, as well as when he's considered a senior, and the age at which he enters the geriatric stage of life:

Chart developed by Dr. Fred L. Metzger, DVM, State College, PA. – Courtesy of
Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, 4th Edition

Vet, Pet Owner Perspectives Differ on When Dogs Enter Senior and Geriatric Stages of Life

If you're surprised to learn the age at which your dog is considered senior or geriatric, you're not alone. According to information collected by VetStreet, while most veterinary professionals consider all dogs seniors at 5 to 7 years of age, a majority of pet guardians believe 7 to 9 years is more accurate.¹

Owners of small dogs don't consider them senior until around age 11, medium-sized dogs around age 9, and large and giant breed dogs around 7. This is slightly at odds with veterinary professionals, who consider small, medium, and large dogs senior at around 7, and giant breeds at around 5.

When it comes to using the G-word to describe patients, veterinary professionals tend to view small and medium dogs as geriatric around 11, large dogs around 9, and giant breeds around 7. Contrast that with dog parents, who feel small dogs aren't geriatric until they reach age 13, medium dogs at 11 to 13, large dogs around 11, and giant breeds at around age 9.

So if you're shocked to hear your veterinarian refer to your canine companion as "senior" (or, less likely, "geriatric"), try not to worry or take offense. Just like humans, as pets get older their healthcare needs change. Rest assured your vet isn't so much labeling your dog as putting her in a special care category to insure her wellness exams cover potential age-related health challenges.

And this is a good thing, because for purposes of supporting her health, mental status and quality of life as she ages, it's really not a bad idea to think about ways you can take extra-special care of your pet as she crosses the 7 year threshold and beyond.

Three Important Ways to Help Your Dog Age Gracefully

Provide physical and emotional comfort. Twice-yearly vet visits are very important for older pets, as they insure you and your veterinarian can stay on top of any physical or mental changes that may indicate an underlying disease process.

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and physically active will help control arthritis and degenerative joint disease as he ages. Chiropractic adjustments, stretching, water exercises, and acupuncture can also provide enormous benefits in keeping dogs comfortably mobile in their later years. Regular massage can help keep your pet's muscles toned and reduce the slackening that comes with aging.

There are also supplements that can be added to your dog's diet to help maintain healthy tendons, ligaments, joints, and cartilage. These include glucosamine sulfate with MSM and eggshell membrane, perna mussel, omega-3 fats (krill oil), ubiquinol, supergreen foods like spirulina and astaxanthin, and natural anti-inflammatory agents (herbs, including curcumin, proteolytic enzymes, and nutraceuticals).

Provide high-quality dietary protein. Contrary to what many pet guardians and even veterinarians believe, studies indicate dogs (and cats) need more protein as they age, not less.

The reason many senior dog food formulas boast reduced protein content is because the poor-quality protein they use is difficult to digest, especially for older dogs. The rendered protein sources used by most major pet food manufacturers put chronic strain on the kidneys and liver, so by the time a dog is into her senior years, her organs can no longer do their job efficiently. This is why commercial reduced protein diets for senior pets were created.

It's an unfortunate situation, because your dog actually needs more protein as she ages – not less – in order to maintain healthy lean muscle mass and good organ and immune function. But the type of protein most dogs thrive on is whole, unprocessed, and preferably raw.

Provide exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. No matter your dog's age, she needs daily exercise to be optimally healthy in body and mind. Your older dog obviously can't exercise or compete at the same level as a youngster, but she still needs daily walks and other age-appropriate physical activity.

Your aging dog also needs regular social interaction with other pets and/or people. Much like her human family members, if your dog doesn't stay active and involved in life, the world can become a confusing, even threatening place. She needs regular exposure to other pets and people, ideally through short periods of socialization and playtime in controlled situations.

Enriching your pet's environment can help alleviate or forestall the mental confusion and decline of cognitive function that often come with age. Sticking to a predictable daily routine can help reduce anxiety and mental uncertainty. Puzzle toys and interactive games provide fun and mental stimulation.

Supplements that can help improve mental decline in aging dogs include S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), apoaequorin, vitamin B6, vitamin E, resveratrol, ginkgo biloba, and phosphatidylserine.

Foster Cat Learns to Walk with Walker

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Previously abandoned foster cat Thumper was unable to walk properly due to a neurological problem, but using his walker helped him regain the use of his hind legs.

Mar 8, 2015

Does YOUR Pet’s Food Contain This Toxic Synthetic Vitamin?

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By Dr. Becker

Today I’m interviewing a very special guest, Dr. Tom Cameron. Dr. Cameron runs the DeForest Veterinary Clinic in DeForest, Wisconsin, where he offers a combination of traditional and holistic treatment modalities. He also serves in a technical support role to the Standard Process line of veterinary nutritional supplements.

Standard Process is one of my very favorite whole food supplement companies, and I asked Dr. Cameron if he could join us today to talk about a questionable pet food ingredient called menadione.

Menadione, or Synthetic Vitamin K, Is a Widely Used Ingredient in Pet Food

Menadione is one of those mystery ingredients you may have noticed if you read pet food labels. Dr. Cameron explains that menadione is a vitamin K analog – a synthetic version of vitamin K. Many people know that vitamin K comes from certain foods, for example, green leafy vegetables and liver. Vitamin K is an important factor in blood clotting. It also drives minerals to certain organs of the body like the teeth and bones, to help them heal and to support connective tissue.

Menadione is called vitamin K3, which is a synthetic version of vitamin K that is widely used in pet foods, presumably to replace naturally-occurring vitamin K.

There’s a great deal of controversy and growing concern around the use of menadione in pet food, and also some human foods. As with many questionable ingredients in the food supply, there is an ongoing debate over whether or not menadione is safe. The concern in the holistic community is primarily about the long-term effects of menadione. The holistic perspective, of course, is that it’s much healthier and safer to get nutrients, especially vitamins and minerals, from food rather than supplements.

Menadione Is Toxic to the Liver and Other Organs

Menadione is a synthetic analog, which means it’s man-made. Natural vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is absorbed through fat metabolism. Menadione is a water-soluble form of vitamin K that works very differently. It is presumably absorbed by bacteria in the gut and converted to forms of vitamin K the body can use.

There are very significant limitations to menadione vs. natural vitamin K. For example, it doesn’t support blood clotting. So there are important properties of natural vitamin K that synthetic vitamin K lacks.

Another significant and growing concern about menadione is that it may cause liver toxicity. According to Dr. Cameron, there are many references that classify menadione as a toxin. There are studies from other countries that show that menadione causes toxicity to liver cells and red blood cells. There are material safety data sheets (MSDS) that list menadione as a substance that is toxic to the liver, kidneys, lungs, mucous membranes, and other tissues. Obviously, it’s a concern when a toxin is being added to foods that pets are eating every day.

Why Pet Food Manufacturers Use Menadione

Defenders of the use of menadione in pet food say that it’s inexpensive and stable. Those are the two main reasons given for using menadione so extensively in pet food. Other manufacturers claim they’re using menadione at very low levels. Another argument is that it has been used in livestock and poultry feeds for years, and hasn’t caused any problems.

But as Dr. Cameron explains, the difference is that most dogs and cats eat processed pet food their entire lives – sometimes 13, 14, 15 years or longer. He’s very uncomfortable with even a small amount of a toxic substance given over a long period of time. In veterinary practice, we see many different conditions related to the liver, and we need to be concerned that even tiny amounts of toxins given over a long period of time might cause or contribute to the diseases we see.

I asked Dr. Cameron why, if there are safety concerns with menadione, pet food companies are using it rather than natural food-based forms of vitamin K. He believes it’s because it’s much cheaper to make synthetic vitamin K3 in a laboratory. Cost is a primary driver in pet food manufacturing. The other reason is that menadione is very stable. Unlike natural vitamins, it isn’t affected by heat, sunlight, storage, dehydration or other factors.

Using whole food ingredients in pet food in a way that keeps them stable is a more involved process. Plus whole food ingredients tend to be more expensive.

Types of Pet Foods Containing Menadione

Dr. Cameron has found synthetic vitamin K in every type of pet food – canned, dry, raw – all of them. But its use is especially prevalent in dry and canned foods. AAFCO has determined that menadione should be the recommended vitamin K supplement added to pet foods, so the majority of manufacturers use it.

As a proponent of raw diets, I was shocked to discover menadione is used in some commercial raw pet foods. Most people who advocate raw diets are proponents of whole food ingredients because they understand that consuming food in its natural form and freshly prepared is optimally healthy. Finding it in raw diets tells me that some companies aren’t investigating the ingredients they use. They’re placing their trust in their formulators without actually evaluating each individual ingredient in their food, which concerns me.

So for all of you out there who haven’t read the fine print on your pet food label – even if you’re buying an excellent quality raw pet diet – make sure to examine the list of vitamins and minerals closely. If you see menadione or vitamin K3 on the list, you know the food contains a potentially toxic ingredient.

How Whole Food Nutrients Differ from Synthetic Nutrients

Dr. Cameron is a whole food nutrient specialist, which is another reason I wanted to talk to him today. Standard Process has built its reputation on whole food nutrition. I asked Dr. Cameron to talk about what happens in our bodies when we replace natural food-derived nutrients with synthetic nutrients.

He explained that our bodies and those of our pets have evolved over millions of years eating whole foods. In other words, animal bodies (including ours) are designed to process nutrients from whole food. There are very specific receptors in the body designed to make perfect use of the nutrients contained in real food.

But when we start breaking whole foods apart to reproduce their nutrients in the laboratory, we run into lots of limitations. When a synthetic nutrient is created in a lab, the finished product has a different structure from the natural form of the nutrient. The man-made nutrient doesn’t fit well into the receptor in the body that is designed for it.

The result is that not all components of the synthetic nutrient can be used by the body. It’s therefore less efficient, it doesn’t have the same metabolic effect as the real thing, and our bodies must process the unusable portion as a xenobiotic (waste) product. It takes energy to get rid of the waste, which is a drain on the body’s resources.

The Value of Long-Term Use of Synthetic Vitamins Has Been Overstated

Dr. Cameron says there are human studies that show long-term use of synthetic vitamins does not have the health benefits we expect. Menadione is an excellent example of a synthetic vitamin that is represented as vitamin K, but without many of the important benefits of whole food vitamin K. There are actually five derivatives of vitamin K – K1 and K2 are the ones that seem to be of most benefit in the body. Whole food tends to have all the forms of vitamins rather than just one. When a nutrient is fractioned and separated from all the other ingredients that create synergy and work together with it, the therapeutic activity of the nutrient is lost.

When it comes to synthetic vitamin K in pet food, manufacturers have done a good job of convincing consumers of its value. Also, we’re accustomed to reading the top half of pet food ingredient labels, but not the bottom half that contains the vitamins and minerals. Not only are those ingredients confusing and impossible to pronounce for most people, but there’s also no way to know where they’ve been sourced from.

Thank you, Dr. Tom Cameron!

I really appreciate Dr. Cameron taking time to talk to us today about the synthetic vitamins -- and synthetic vitamin K in particular -- that may be lurking in commercial pet food.

And I want to encourage all of you who feed a commercial diet to your pets to check the bag, can or container for the presence of menadione.

For more information on menadione, Dog Food Advisor has an excellent article on the subject.

Super-Fan Builds Exact Replica of UP House For Dog

We all know UP is an inspiring and heart-warming movie, but no one is more inspired by it than Steve Minty. He’s so crazy about it that he cosplay’s as the film’s adorable character Russell at ComicCon.

The only thing he’s more head over paws in love with than the movie is his rescue dog Dug, named after the UP! pup, of course. That’s why Steve’s bestie, Esteban Gomez, knew nothing could be more special than having Tim Baker’s Super-Fan team build an UP! house for his friend’s favorite pooch.

UP superfan 1

Tim and his group of builders create elaborate nerd-inspired projects for their YouTube show ‘Super-Fan Builds,’ but they’ve never had a project quite like this!

Not only does this doggie den look exactly like the home from the film, it even has fiberglass “balloons” that make the house look like it’s about to liftoff for an adventurous ride into the skies! The team worked tirelessly to create a perfect scaled-down duplicate of the house.

It also features its very own Carl, the old man from the movie, grumpily peering out from one of the windows!

UP superfan 6

This is one pooch that won’t ever mind being in the dog house!

Check out how it all came together in the video below:

Quiz: What’s Your Dog’s Personality Type?

Just how well do you know your bff? Discover your dog’s personality type in this quiz inspired by the ASPCA’s Canine-ality™ Assessment!

12 Cats Who Unapologetically Delight In Being Jerks To Dogs

The love between siblings is a bond that can’t be broken but when it comes to these kitties they sure have been showing that boundaries can definitely be pushed to the limits when it comes to their canine kin!

1. Let the battle commence!

2. “Damn you kitten! I need my beauty sleep.”

3. If all else fails smother your tormentor.

4. Mittens had no intention of letting Buster go on his afternoon walk.

5. Tolerance level strong!

6. “Pweeeezzz! I just want a snack”

7. It was love until…

8. This cat couldn’t give a…

9. “That’s right puppy, you will love me!”

10. “Mom, tell him that’s my food!”

11. “Hey.. Staaap, That tickles.”

12. “He doesn’t taste like a hot dog!”

Mar 7, 2015

The Real Reason Your Dog Is a Sloppy Drinker

By Dr. Becker

In their continuing quest to discover why canines are such doggone sloppy drinkers, a team led by researchers from MIT (yes, I’m referring to the esteemed Massachusetts Institute of Technology) recently described in some detail why dogs are such a hot mess when imbibing from their water bowls. The team was also able to shed some light on why large dogs create more mopping opportunities than their tinier counterparts.

Get Your Drink On: Cats vs. Dogs vs. Humans

The researchers presented their findings during the American Physical Society’s Division of Fluid Dynamics Meeting held in San Francisco in November of last year, following up on a study published in 2010 on how cats drink.¹ The prior study found that:

“Felines drink via a two-part process consisting of an elegant plunge and pull, in which a cat gently places its tongue on the water’s surface and then rapidly withdraws it, creating a column of water underneath the cat’s retracting tongue.”²

Since both cats and dogs walk on all fours and their bodies are adapted to a predatory lifestyle, their cheeks are designed for more serious business than sucking in fluids like ours are.

Punching vs. Plunging

Unlike the elegant feline plunge-and-pull, dogs punch the water’s surface with their tongues, which creates a lot of splashing. Then they pull their tongues back in a greatly accelerated motion – about five times that of gravity – which creates columns of water that travel upwards into their mouths.

Big Dogs Make a Big Splash

Since bigger dogs drink with a larger moist area of the tongue, the researchers believe “…a proportional relationship exists between water contact area of the dog’s tongue and body weight, thus the volume of water a dog’s tongue can move increases exponentially relative to the dog’s body size.”³

Translation: the bigger the dog, the bigger the mess. (I think we already knew this!)

And one last tidbit you may want to contemplate as you wipe down the floor around your dog’s water bowl for the umpteenth time... Since the tip of your dog’s tongue functions like a gravy ladle or serving spoon, when it’s full to the brim, he has to open his mouth wider to pull in all the water. This also contributes to the splishy-splashy-sloppy factor.

17 Dogs Who Are Living Your Relationship Goals

If these butt-sniffing puppers can find love, there’s nothing stopping you from doing the same.

1. The Snuggle-Butt Couple

“She’s always making my paw fall asleep, but she’s too cute to move.”

Image via @Canadog

2. The Pawty Pups

When your boyfriend surprises you with a weekend getaway. Win!

15FullSizeRender[1] Image via @stellathefrenchpup

3. The Barbie and Ken Couple

“He lets me ride shotgun and never complains about my dog breath. He’s a better dog than I’ll ever be.”

7FullSizeRender2 Image via @2happyhavanese

4. The Fighters Who Love To Make Up

We bark and sometimes bite, but it’s what makes us, us. #LoveTakesCompawmise

11FullSizeRender[2] Image via @babaandjojo

5. The PDA Couple

“Yeah, keep drooling, this Frenchie’s all mine!”

REAL13FullSizeRender[4] Image via @porkchopfrenchie

6. The Couch Potatoes

“He binge-watches Glee with me, but I know he secretly likes it.”

FullSizeRender[1] Image via @brabancon_raidenandyoshi

7. The Experimental Couple

“We didn’t know this would go viral. No comment.”

16FullSizeRender[2] Image via @toastmeetsworld

8. The Old Timers

“She still smells just like the first day I sniffed her butt.”

FullSizeRender[4] Image via @rufusandrosie

9. The Unlikely Pair

“Dogs are always asking about our heights, but we’re the same size lying down. ;)”

6FullSizeRender[1] Image via @marniethedog

10. The Odd Couple

“My dad started seeing her mom, so we’re sort of step-pups? We try not to think about it too much.”

FullSizeRender[2] Image via @rocco_roni

11. The Benchwarmers

“We met at the dog park. He had me at woof.”

3FullSizeRender[2] Image via @bringyourfurryfriend

12. The Puppy Love Affair

We would go out for walks at the same time every morning, I always saw her sniffing my poop.

4FullSizeRender[3] Image via @vivien_zq

13. Beauty and the Geek

“His favorite book is Crime and Punishment, and I read Cosmo. We balance each other out.”

5FullSizeRender[4] Image via @penny_and_finn

14. The Adventurers

“We were hiking; she offered to share her water dish.”

FullSizeRender Image via @sonnythesetter

15. The Doppelgangers

“They say you’re attracted to pups that look like you. I don’t get it.”

8FullSizeRender Image via @tinkandmeek

16. The Vacationers

“We’ve worn matching shirts in three continents and eleven countries so far.”

12FullSizeRender[3] Image via @daelanandharley

17. The Free Spirits

“Sometimes we go on a cell phone diet and just roll in the grass for hours. We try not to take ourselves too seriously.”

FullSizeRender[3] Image via @rocco_roni

10 Incredible Dog Rescue Stories That Will Make Your Eyes Rain Tears Of Joy

People who dedicate their time to rescuing stray or abandoned dogs are probably the best kind of people! When it’s caught on film it definitely tugs at the heart strings. The following 10 video will have you reaching for the tissues to wipe away your tears!

1. This Pitbull was used for bait before being “thrown out.” Watch as this sweet dog is rescued and given a second chance.

2. A blind dog unable to walk is abandoned at a shelter and about to be euthanized. Thank dog hoomans came to the rescue!

3. This dog is rescued and a few days later gives her rescuers quite a surprise.

4.This aptly named brother and sister were rescued as the Endeavour space shuttle flew over.

5. This man saves 7 puppies in a very tight squeeze.

6. A Singapore street dog with an amazing story.

7. I bet they never thought going traveling would bring them a new best friend.

8. He just wanted to be loved.

9. Tears all round!

10.These 4 pups now have a second chance at a happy ending.

Mar 5, 2015

Want a Pet to Hold and Cuddle? Consider These Giants

By Dr. Becker

While some breeds of cats can be traced back hundreds of years, Ragdoll cats date back just over five decades.¹ The first litter was born in the early 1960s in California, and quickly grew into a beloved breed.

Ragdolls are known for their silky, rabbit-like fur (that surprisingly sheds very little), bright blue eyes (in the pointed pattern) and their laid-back, docile personalities. As their name suggests, Ragdolls are so easy going that they’ll let a child carry them around the house like a, well, rag doll.

If you’re interested in learning more about Ragdolls, Paw Nation has put together 10 fascinating facts, below.²

10 Ragdoll Facts Every Cat Lover Should Know

1. They’re from the West Coast

Ragdolls were created by Ann Baker in Riverside, California in 1963. She wanted to develop a large cat with a long coat and gentle personality. While the breed grew in popularity quickly, Baker reportedly invented wild stories about the breed’s origins and set up her own registry to try and enforce strict standards on the breed.

2. Ragdolls Go Limp When You Pick Them Up

Many people love Ragdolls because they go limp when you pick them up, just like a Ragdoll. They love to be held and cuddled, and they’re one of the most affectionate cat breeds.

3. They’re One of the Largest Domestic Cat Breeds

Like the Maine Coon, Ragdolls are a large breed. Males may weigh up to 20 pounds while females may weigh 15. But their large size doesn’t stop them from seeking affection – they love to be carried around (which can be a workout for you!).

4. Bright Blue Eyes

Ragdolls are known for their striking blue eyes. However, not all Ragdolls have them. Some Ragdolls have blue-green or gold eyes, depending on their pattern. Ragdoll kittens are all born with blue eyes but some will deepen as the cat grows older.

5. Fur Can Be Many Different Patterns and Colors

There are many variations of Ragdoll coats, but in general they will have a lighter body combined with a darker face, legs, tail and ears.³ Ragdolls may be lilac, red, blue, chocolate, cream, or seal, and there are four possible patterns:

Mitted, with white paws (like mittens)

Van, which is a solid body with darker coloring on the head, ears and tail

Bicolor, which is a white chest, legs, stomach, and neck along with a face mask in the shape of an upside-down “V”

Colorpoint, which has darker-colored “points” on its face, ears, legs, and tail

6. Perfect Lap Kitties

If you’re looking for a snuggler, look no further than a Ragdoll. While some cats prefer to explore and get into mischief, Ragdolls like to stay by your side.

7. The Algonquin Hotel Cat Is a Ragdoll

The Algonquin Hotel in New York City has had a resident cat (actually 10 of them) since the 1930s. Matilda, a Ragdoll, is the historic hotel’s current reigning cat.

8. They Love Running Water

Ragdolls are intrigued by the sound of running water (although they enjoy all forms of water). When you turn on the shower, bath or tap, your Ragdoll may come running.

9. They’re Surrounded by Mystery

There are many myths surrounding Ragdolls, although most of them are thought to have been started by their creator Ann Baker. Among them, Ragdolls are said to be fearless, impervious to pain, alien hybrids, and products of genetic modification.

10. A Perfect Family Cat

Ragdolls’ docile personalities make them a perfect breed for families with children. They also get along well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs. Ragdolls are even sometimes called “puppy cats” because they like to follow people around and even play fetch.

Mixed-Breed Cats Often Have a Wonderful Mix of Traits

If you have your heart set on a certain color pattern or personality trait in a cat, you might be surprised to find it at your local shelter. Along with the occasional purebred, shelters are packed with mixed-breed cats, have some mix of purebred cat in their background, along with domestic cats, which is a term used to describe cats of unknown breed.

You’ll find all mixes of colors and personalities, cats that fetch, and cats that love to cuddle. So before going purebred, you might want to make a trip to a nearby shelter. If you have a certain trait in mind, be sure to talk with the workers and volunteers. They’ll probably be quite familiar with each cat’s personality and can help you find the perfect match for your family.

Clever Kitty vs. Machine

Visit the Pet Video Library

Once the kitty is an expert cap closer, she gets ambidextrous. Then she tries to keep it from opening in the first place. Next, she opens the cap herself. Clever kitty!

Simple Way to Reduce Stress for Children of Deployed Military Personnel

By Dr. Becker

There are many proven benefits of pet ownership, and among the latest to surface is the ability of pets to help the children of U.S. military families cope with a unique set of stressors, including frequent moves and long absences of parents who are deployed.

A study published recently in the journal Applied Developmental Science¹ suggests that a strong bond with animals, along with other key resources, helps the children of military personnel cultivate resiliency and other positive personal attributes.

Strong Attachment to a Pet Helps Military Kids Manage Stress

The study researchers, who are affiliated with the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, set out to discover whether some of the specific stressors experienced by military families could be alleviated through interaction with animals.

According to Megan Mueller, Ph.D., a developmental psychologist and co-author of the study:

“We found that kids with deployed parents who had developed a deep bond with a family pet reported having better coping strategies in dealing with the stress than those without such ties to a companion animal.”²

The study was conducted using an online survey that measured human-animal interaction, positive youth development, and stress and adaptive coping strategies among 300 children in grades 6 through 12 (ages 12-13 to 17-18). About 70 percent of the kids surveyed had family pets and most had some responsibility for caring for their pet.

Children who were bonded to a companion animal had higher positive youth development scores in measures such as competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring, than all military-connected children.

Kids with at least one parent who was deployed had significantly higher stress levels than those who didn’t. The ability to interact with a companion animal played a strong role in helping those children cope, and the quality and strength of the connection between children and their pets was also important.

According to Mueller:

“It isn’t enough to be around animals – children need to be engaged in that relationship. Strong attachments to pets may foster a more proactive attitude about handling stressful problems and could serve as a bridge to developing and maintaining peer relationships during stressful circumstances.”³

Improving Resiliency During Challenging Times

Mueller believes the study is a first step in understanding whether the emotional attachment to an animal companion is one way for kids to develop positive coping strategies in the face of emotional stressors. The results may ultimately help military families develop increased resiliency during stressful times.

“Through this work, we recognize the importance of establishing connections that help kids develop a sense of responsibility and outward focus. We now know that caring for a pet boosts self-confidence, establishes important routines and provides a stabilizing force in the highly-mobile life of a military child,” said Sandy Franklin of the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC).

Mar 4, 2015

14 Dog Puns That Are So Corny, They’ll Give You A Serious Case Of The Giggles

If you’re a word nerd and a dog lover like I am, you’ll find these dog puns particularly amusing. From the silly to the downright hilarious, these dog puns are gleaned from the fabulous and deep world of pun-filled Tumblr.

1. This Lab who’s very serious about science and school.

2. This pup who’s over this long, bitter winter already.

3. This Pug getting ready for spring break.

4. These two huge Jurassic Park heads

5. This Lab who’s very into Roman mythology.

6. This Journey lover.

Pun

7. This shark with a wiener problem.

8. This corgtastic map of Corglandia.

9. This specialty chef.

10. This Fifty Shades Of Grey fan.

11. This high-maintenance pup.

12. This dog who’s over the work week already.

13. This Wiener who just can’t stay put.

Doxie funny pic

14. And the evergreen puntastic husky for the win!

What Your Dog’s “Guilty Look” Tells You – And What It Doesn’t

By Dr. Becker

I’m sure all you dog lovers out there have seen at least a few of the “dog shaming” videos and pictures that have popped up on the Internet over the last few years. In many of them, the dog looks truly guilty or embarrassed, and the “thought bubbles” or signs the owners add to explain why the dog is feeling ashamed are often hilarious.

Here’s a quick example:

But do dogs really feel shame?

Is There a Connection Between Your Dog’s ‘Look’ and Feelings of Guilt?

Not according to dog behaviorists, who believe that hangdog look, you know the one -- lowered head, ears back, pleading eyes – is simply your pet’s reaction to the hissy fit you’re throwing over something he did earlier.

According to Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a professor at Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and executive director of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, you should “Just get over it and remind yourself not to put temptation in the way next time.”

Jeremy Lakaszcyck of Boston agrees. He’s the owner of Maymo, the dog in the video above. Maymo is a lemon Beagle whose YouTube shaming videos are enormously popular. According to Lakaszcyck, Maymo’s naturally guilty face and his reaction when he’s spoken to in a stern voice are video gold.

“Maymo can sit for quite a while looking sad because he’s a ham,” says Lakaszycyck. “It’s natural, and he knows a treat is coming. His tail usually wags through the wait. It’s like he’s happy on one end and sad on the other,” he said.

Study Suggests ‘The Look’ Is a Reaction to Being Scolded

In 2009, Alexandra Horowitz, an associate professor of psychology at Barnard College and author of the book, Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, published one of the first scientific studies on dogs and feelings of guilt or shame.¹

Horowitz’s study involved 14 dogs who were put through a series of trials to see how they reacted when their owner told them not to eat a treat, then left the room. When the owners returned, sometimes they knew what the dogs had done, and sometimes they didn’t. Sometimes the dogs had eaten the treats, and sometimes they hadn’t.

Horowitz observed that the dogs assumed “the look” most often when their owners reprimanded them, regardless of whether or not they had disobeyed. And in fact, the dogs reacted more to a scolding when they had behaved themselves than when they were disobedient.

According to Horowitz, the dogs weren’t displaying “guilt,” but a reaction to the owner’s tone of voice. However, she doesn’t rule out the possibility that dogs may feel guilt – she simply points out that “the look” isn’t an indication of it.

Of course, our dogs certainly do learn from their bad behavior, but only if our reaction occurs as the behavior is happening, or immediately afterward. The longer the elapsed time between your dog’s bad deed and your reaction, the less connection she’ll make between the two.

Mar 3, 2015

Your Dog Is About To Forget You Ever Hugged Them

Johan Lind and a group of researchers at Stockholm University studied the memories of 25 species of animals, including dogs. What they found might make you a little bit sad. According to the study, a dog’s short term memory only lasts for two minutes!

This means that after 120 seconds, your BFF can’t remember that super snuggle session you two just had. But, a pup’s memory is far longer than the 20 second memory span of chimps.

That’s why your pup gets super excited when you come home or sometimes when you simply re-enter a room. They can’t remember exactly when you left, so to them it seems like you’ve been gone furever.

This all runs on the theory that only humans have episodic memory, which is the ability to recall specific events from our past. According to National Geographic, animals’ brains are mainly wired for survival and aren’t concerned with the trivial details of daily life.

We may remember who gave us our birthday gifts, but your pooch likely has no idea where she got that awesome squeaky ball. She just knows that she has it and loves it.

catching ball

This might sound like a bummer because you may think this means that your beloved pet will forget you after two minutes. But have no fear! Your pup knows exactly who you are and is very aware that you are part of a pack.

Dogs have associative memories, allowing them to remember repeated events (including places and people) and the feelings attached to those events. This type of memory accounts for a dog’s ability to learn tricks and for him to remember that he really loves going to the park.

But, scientist Gema Martin-Ordas tells National Geographic that we need more research before we judge an animal’s memory. Lind doesn’t disagree noting that the laboratory environment might be throwing off the animals’ responses.

pitbull hugs

Whether this study proves to be true or not, the important thing to remember is that your dog may not remember the individual hugs, but they remember the love. And isn’t that really all you need?

This Mother Never Left Her Eggs for Four and a Half Years, Not Even to Eat

By Dr. Becker

For four and a half years, researchers watched a deep-sea octopus brood her eggs. Four and a half years… can you imagine? For all that time, and at a tremendous personal cost, the mama octopus kept her eggs healthy and protected from predators.

According to ScienceDaily:

“This feat represents an evolutionary balancing act between the benefits to the young octopuses of having plenty of time to develop within their eggs, and their mother's ability to survive for years with little or no food.”¹

Brad Seibel, one of the researchers and an associate professor of biological sciences at the University of Rhode Island, believes these findings reveal just how little we know about life in the deep sea. “From shallow-living species we have developed limited and limiting ideas abut the capabilities of animals,” says Seibel.

Octopus Broods Eggs on Rocky Ledge in Monterey Canyon

For the past 25 years, a team of Monterey Bay researchers has performed 3 or 4 surveys a year of deep-sea animals in Monterey Canyon. During a survey in May 2007, the team first encountered a female octopus perched on a rocky ledge about 4,600 feet below the ocean surface. The team realized the octopus, of the species Graneledone boreopacifica, had not been there a month earlier.

During the next 4.5 years, the researchers dove at the site 18 more times and observed the female octopus each time. They knew it was she due to the distinctive scars on her body. As time passed, the translucent eggs she was brooding grew larger, and the baby octopuses could be seen inside.

The researchers also observed that the mother was slowly losing weight, and her skin grew lax and pale. During those 18 dives, they never saw her leave her eggs or eat.

The last sighting of the brooding octopus by the researchers was in September 2011. She was gone when they dove a month later. In an article published in the journal PLOS ONE,² the research team reported that all they found in the spot she had occupied for so long were the remains of empty eggs. From the shells, they were able to determine the octopus had been brooding around 160 eggs.

Long Brooding Time Produces Large, Highly Developed Hatchlings

The eggs of the G. boreopacifica octopus require lots of oxygen so the babies can develop inside. This requires the mama octopus to continuously wash the eggs in oxygenated seawater and insure no silt or debris accumulates on them. The mother must also guard her eggs from predators.

Because the babies spend so much time developing in their eggs, by the time they emerge from their shells they are fully capable of surviving on their own. In fact, newly hatched G. boreopacifica are bigger and better developed than the hatchlings of any other species of octopus or squid.

But long brooding times in an animal like the octopus, which doesn’t live very long, is problematic. According to the researchers:

“The trade-off within the reproductive strategy of deep-living octopods is between the mother’s ability to endure a long brooding period and the competitiveness of her hatchlings. Graneledone boreopacifica produces hatchlings that are very highly developed, which gives them the advantage of a high potential for survival.”³

Since most female octopuses lay only one set of eggs and then die right around the time the eggs hatch, and since most shallow-water octopuses and squid live just a year or two, it appears G. boreopacifica not only has the longest brooding time of any animal, but she may also be one of the longest lived octopuses as well.

Mar 2, 2015

16 Times Pugs Had Better Fashion Advice Than Your Best Friend

Dogs are not usually the ones you’d call on for style advice. They mostly just want you to give out belly rubs and treats regardless of what you’re wearing.

Except Pugs.

Pugs have semi-permanent judgeface going on all the time, so it’s no surprise they’re also some of the most fashionable pups around town. Just ask Suki the Pug, whose Instagram account shares valuable advice on how to not look like a peasant.

Here are 16 fashion tips from pudge-faced Pugs.

1. A smile is your best accessory.

2. Don’t be afraid to match with your best friend.

3. Wear shades so the haters can’t see you.

4. There are no bad hair days. Just opportunities to wear your favorite beanie.

5. Experiment with wigs. Because #YOLO.

6. Pick out some fabulous shoes, then build your outfit around them.

7. Let your inner diva shine through…

8. …but don’t be afraid to choose comfort, too.

9. Wear horizontal stripes to accentuate that puppy belly.

10. Unleash your inner animal.

11. Never underestimate the power of a crisp button-down.

12. Winter is no excuse for not looking cute.

13. Layer up on cold days.

14. Play around with textures.

15. Look for inspiration in magazines.

16. Most importantly, love yourself.

For more expert advice and adorable pics from Suki, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

At :29 We Thought They Were Insane, But By 1:38 We Were SO On Board

Recently we covered the Pennsylvania-based New Leash On Life program which provides prison inmates with valuable dog-training skills in exchange for preparing the pups for the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen test.

Since covering that story, we’ve learned of an impressive documentary, called Dogs On The Inside, that discusses a similar program in Massachusetts and tells the stories of the dogs and inmates.

dogsinside

Check out the awesome trailer below. You can learn more about the film or pre-order at the Dogs On The Inside website.

If Your Dog Could Write A Letter Telling You How Much They Love You, This Would Be It

“I am your dog, and I have a little something I’d like to whisper in your ear.

I know that you humans lead busy lives. Some have to work, some have children to raise. It always seems like you are running here and there, often much too fast, often never noticing the truly grand things in life.